Conrad Zampier keeps Columbia single-game scoring record in the family

EAST GREENBUSH -- Conrad Zampier wasn't really planning on breaking the single-game scoring record at Columbia High School.

Until Tuesday evening, Zampier's 43-point performance was just an idea, a chance possibility and a number written on an index card taped to his bedroom wall, reminding the Blue Devils' senior that the chance to cement his name in school history was within his reach.

Going into the Suburban Council matchup against Mohonasen, Zampier simply let things take their course, finding the open spots on the court and taking advantage of that half-second that set him apart from the defense. That relaxed approach led him straight into history, breaking his brother Alexander's previous 42-point record, and helped secure an 80-73 victory for the Blue Devils.

"It was pretty much my goal this year," Zampier said. "I had a pretty good off-season and summer, so I wanted to try."

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As much as the goal was constantly in the back of Zampier's mind, it wasn't something he was thinking about in Tuesday's double overtime victory.

The record was special, without a doubt, but the win itself was more important.

"It was special, of course," Zampier said. "But I think it was a bigger win than anything else."

Zampier was certainly the highlight of the game though, racking up seven three-point shots and going a near perfect 14-of-18 from the free thrown line. For the senior it seemed no matter what he did or where he was on the court, the ball seemed to find him and he found the basket.

"In the first quarter I had a bunch of three pointers and that really got me going," he said. "Kevin Smith, our point guard just tried to find me. He was looking for the hot hand at the time and that's what he did."

The moment was particularly special for Zampier, whose historic performance was not only seen by Columbia basketball fans, but also his older brother, a professional player in Argentina, who is back home after a knee injury.

Getting the chance to not only break the record, but break his brother's record with Alexander in the stands made the moment that much sweeter for Zampier; he didn't even brag about it.

"It was pretty special," he said. "It was all fun. He (Alexander) was definitely really happy about it."

With more than a dozen games still left to be played this season, Zampier is confident in his future performances on the court and he's liking the Blue Devils chances of making a run at the Suburban Council championship.

"I think we're better than last year," Zampier said. "We have three returning starters, which is pretty huge. I don't really have any other personal goals now, but I do have team goals."